Supreme Court Strikes Down Defense of Marriage Act

Wednesday

Jun 26, 2013 at 11:20 AM

The Supreme Court has ruled that a key part of the Defense of Marriage Act is unconstitutional, The New York Times reports.In a 5-4 vote Wednesday morning, the court struck down a portion of the 1996 law that previously denied ...

TV Guide

The Supreme Court has ruled that a key part of the Defense of Marriage Act is unconstitutional, The New York Times reports.

In a 5-4 vote Wednesday morning, the court struck down a portion of the 1996 law that previously denied federal benefits to married same-sex couples. "The federal statute is invalid, for no legitimate purpose overcomes the purpose and effect to disparage and injure those whom the State, by its marriage laws, sought to protect in personhood and dignity," Justice Anthony M. Kennedy wrote. "By seeking to displace this protection and treating those persons as living in marriages less respected than other, the federal statute is in violation of the Fifth Amendment."

See out and proud celebrities

The decision will not alter any state laws governing same-sex marriage, but rather extends federal benefits afforded to heterosexual married couples to legally married same-sex couples. After the ruling, President Barack Obama tweeted: "Today's DOMA ruling is a historic step forward for #MarriageEquality #LoveIsLove"

The court also on Wednesday dismissed an appeal regarding Proposition 8, California's ban on gay marriage. The move allows legal same-sex marriage to resume in the state.

View original Supreme Court Strikes Down Defense of Marriage Act at TVGuide.com

Other Links From TVGuide.com
Barack Obama

TV Guide iPhone App TV Listings New Tonight on TV

Never miss a story

Choose the plan that's right for you.
Digital access or digital and print delivery.